How To Become A Paediatric Dietitian In South Africa & Subjects Needed

Filed in Article by on May 4, 2021 • 0 Comments

Are you looking for a way to become a Paediatric Dietitian in South Africa and you don’t know the subjects needed or even universities in South Africa where you can undergo the course? If yes, then this informative article is for you. You will be given detailed information about how to become a Paediatric Dietitian in South Africa, Universities and Subjects Needed.

What Does A Paediatric Dietitian Do?

A paediatric dietitian specialises in creating and evaluating nutrition programmes and policies for children from infancy up through 18 years of age. They translate scientific information about nutrition into practical advice to help people make health-conscious decisions about food. They assess, diagnose and treat diet-related problems and aim to raise awareness of the link between food and health to prevent future problems.

Paediatric Dietitians may:

  • Work in hospitals, clinics, community wellness centres, and public or private school systems
  • Be asked to work with doctors, nurses, school officials and government agencies to create and implement nutritional programmes for children
  • Meet directly with children and their parents to develop weight management plans or suggest dietary modifications for children with chronic diseases
  • Provide nutrition services for schools or community centres, such as creating student breakfast and lunch menus, overseeing food production in school cafeterias, or providing shopping and cooking advice to families.

What Qualifications Do I Need?

In order to work as a paediatric dietitian, at least a bachelor’s degree in nutrition or dietetics is required. A National Senior Certificate that meets the requirements for this degree is needed. The undergraduate degree can be completed in four to five years, depending on whether the degree programme includes an internship option.

In addition to general coursework requirements in the humanities or liberal arts, you may study the following topics: human metabolism of nutrients, food science, human physiology, biochemistry, and nutrition and health. Paediatric dietitians are required to register with the Interim National Medical and Dental Council of South Africa before being allowed to practise legally.

What Subjects Do I Need?

Contact each institution for their specific requirements, but these subjects are recommended:

  • Mathematics
  • Physical Sciences
  • Life Sciences
  • Home Economics

Where Can I Study?

University of KwaZulu-Natal

University of Johannesburg

University of Limpopo

University of the Free State

Cape Peninsula University of Technology

  • Bachelor of Technology: Consumer Science (Food and Nutrition)
  • www.cput.ac.za

Durban University of Technology

  • Bachelor of Technology: Consumer Science (Food and Nutrition)
  • www.dut.ac.za

Tshwane University of Technology

  • Bachelor of Technology: Consumer Science (Food and Nutrition)
  • www.tut.ac.za

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